Columbia, South Carolina – Confidence continues to build that a potentially significant winter storm could impact South Carolina this weekend, raising the risk for hazardous travel and wintry conditions across much of the state as early as Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, forecasters are increasingly confident a winter system will move into the region this weekend, though critical details such as precipitation type, timing and amounts remain uncertain. Impacts could begin Saturday morning and last through Sunday, depending on how the system evolves.
Statewide, the highest likelihood for winter weather impacts stretches across the Midlands and northern portions of South Carolina. Areas including Columbia, Newberry, Lancaster and Orangeburg are within a zone showing a moderate to high probability of at least minor winter impacts. Snow, sleet, freezing rain or a combination of all three are possible, with even light ice accumulation capable of causing dangerous driving conditions.
Farther south and toward eastern Georgia, impacts may be more limited, but forecasters caution that very cold air following the system could extend travel hazards beyond the period of active precipitation. Bridges and overpasses would be especially vulnerable if freezing rain develops.
Residents are urged to monitor updates closely, review travel plans and prepare for cold conditions. Officials stress that while the storm is still several days away, confidence in potential impacts is higher than usual for the region, and additional advisories or watches may be issued as the weekend approaches.
